As we continue to review the grades for the Washington Commanders’ 2023 NFL draft haul, the results are mostly pretty similar. Many give Washington a “B” or “C” for its efforts in landing seven picks.
Eric Edholm, a draft analyst for NFL.com, recently graded each NFC East team’s draft, and he gave the Eagles [A] and Giants [B] the top grades in the division. Edholm gave the Dallas Cowboys and Commanders a “C.”
What did Edholm like and dislike about Washington’s draft?
Cornerback Emmanuel Forbes was a surprise pick to some at 16 (especially with Oregon’s Christian Gonzalez still on the board), but he likely wasn’t going to last much longer. Scouts were infatuated with Forbes’ rare playmaking knack, which Washington could use in a stable QB division. Forbes had six INTs last season; the Commanders had nine as a team.
Edholm likes Jartavius “Quan” Martin:
Jartavius “Quan” Martin was a player who really grew on me during the pre-draft process. He has the flexibility to play inside/outside corner, as well as safety. I think the nickel is his most likely home.
Washington’s offensive linemen:
Washington finally addressed the O-line with back-to-back picks after that, and though I liked Braeden Daniels more than Ricky Stromberg, the centers were coming off the board quickly. Daniels’ athleticism could make up for his lack of length and give him a chance at tackle; otherwise, he projects well inside, too.
Like many, Edholm liked the Commanders’ selection of Clemson EDGE K.J. Henry in the fifth round:
Pass rusher was another double-up spot with KJ Henry and Andre Jones Jr. on Day 3, and it’s another layer of insurance in light of Chase Young’s fifth-year option being declined. Henry, in particular, was a really nice pick in Round 5. He’s a high-character, high-motor player who very much can outplay his draft slot.
What he didn’t like:
I’d have liked to see a tight end land here, given the strength of the class, but instead, the Commanders used their one offensive skill-position pick on Chris Rodriguez Jr., a hard-running grinder who gives them some more depth at the position.
Washington liked its tight ends heading into the draft. The Commanders are counting on a bounceback season from veteran Logan Thomas, who is fully healthy in 2023. Washington also has the steady John Bates and three second-year players, Armani Rogers, Cole Turner and Curtis Hodges. The Commanders really like all three players, and continuing to develop them versus squandering a pick on a tight end in the middle rounds made more sense.